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Phd Nedir? Phd Açılımı Ve Nasıl Yapılır Bilgi

Güncelleme Tarihi: Mayıs 11, 2021 00:25

Günümüzde eğitim hayatında pek çok akademik eğitimler bulunmaktadır. Üniversite mezunu olan kişiler kendilerini geliştirmek için pek çok akademik eğitimlere başvurular. Bunlardan birisi de Phd olmaktadır. Peki Phd nedir? Phd açılımı ve nasıl yapılır hakkındaki bilgileri sizlere detaylıca derledik.

Öğrencilerin en çok merak ettiği konulardan birisi de akademik eğitimlerdir. Üniversite sonrasında yüksek lisans ve doktora gibi pek çok akademik eğitimler yer almaktadır. Burada ise karşımıza Phd çıkmaktadır.

Phd akademik eğitimin son aşaması olarak bilinmektedir. Günümüzde yaygın olarak karşımıza çıkan eğitimlerden birisi de Phd doktora programıdır. Akademik eğitimlerde başarılı olan kişiler için yüksek lisans ve devamında Phd, diğer adı ile doktora programına katılmaya hak kazanmaktadırlar.

Phd Açılımı

Phd günümüzde yaygın olarak yapılan doktora akademik eğitimidir. Dünya üzerinde geçerliliği olan bu eğitime sahip olan tüm kişiler tüm üniversitelere başvurabilme hakkı kazanırlar. Doctor Of Philosophy'nin kısaltması olan Phd'ye başvuran kişiler üniversitelerde akademik kariyerlerinin yanı sıra dünya üzerinde de bir standarda sahip olabilmek için bu programı tercih ederler.

Phd Nasıl Yapılır?

Phd programına başvurmak isteyen pek çok kişi bulunmaktadır. Fakat bı programa başvurabilmek için lisans eğitimi ve ardından yüksek lisans eğitiminin tamamlanması gerekir. Fakat bazı istisnai durumlar da mevcuttur. Bu durumlardan birisi üniversitelerde başarılı lisan eğitimini yapan kişiler mezun olduktan sonra doktora programlarına katılabilirler.

Phd yapabilmek için öğrencilerin not ortalamalarının iyi olması gerekir. Not ortalaması iyi olan öğrencilerin başvurabilecekleri üniversite sayıları da artmaktadır. Bunun dışında iyi bir not ortalamasına sahip olmak iyi üniversitelerde Phd yapma imkanı da sağlamaktadır.

Doktora diğer adı ile Phd programları genellikle 3 ile 5 yıl aralığında değişmektedir. Ayrıca doktora öğrencilerin yapması gereken bir araştırma süreçleri de bulunmaktadır.

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PhD Nedir? Doktora Derecesi Nasıl Alınır?

Yüksek lisans öğrencilerinin akademik kariyerlerine devam etmek istemesi önlerine bir soru çıkarıyor. PHD nedir, doktora derecesi nasıl alınır? Haydi öğrenelim.

PhD’nin tarihi ile başlayalım

Eğitimin evrildiği 19. yüzyıl dönemlerinde Almanya’nın modern araştırma üniversitesi tarafından bir derece olarak ortaya çıkmıştır. Yüksek lisans eğitiminden sonra gereken yeterlilik sağlanırsa öğrenciler en yüksek akademik rütbe olan doktora derecesini almaya aday olabileceklerdir.

PHD, yani yabancı ismiyle Doctor of Philosophy , doktora derecesi olarak tanımlanmaktadır. Eski Yunancaya göre Felsefe Doktoru olarak olarak çevirilmektedir. Lisans programlarını ve yüksek lisans eğitminin derecesini başarıyla elde eden öğrenciler, ilgili bilim dalında doktora yapabilmektedirler. Buradan sonra alınan başarı, uluslararası geçerliliğe sahip olan bilim doktoru veya Doctor of Philosophy olarak unvan kişiye kazandırılmaktadır.

PHD nasıl yapılır?

PHD yapmak isteyen öğrenciler için sağlamak zorunda olması gereken bazı şartlar bulunmaktadır. Akademik kariyerlerinin devamı için bu şartları sağlayan adaylar doktora programına başlayabilirler. Peki, gelelim doktora nasıl yapılır sorusunun cevabına. Doktoranın amacı ; öğrencilere bağımsız araştırma yapabilme, bilimsel konuları takip edebilme ve katma değer sağlayabilme, bunun sonucunda araştırma sonuçlarına göre bilimsel tez çalışması yürütebilme ve bu tezi sunma yeteneği kazandıracaktır.

PHD başvuru şartları nelerdir?

PHD başvurusu yapabilmek için öğrencileri bekleyen bazı şartlar vardır. Bu şartlar üniversiteden üniversiteye ve ülkeden ülkeye değişkenlik göstermektedir. Ortalama olarak doktora programına başvurmak için aşağıdaki başvuru şartlarını yerine getirmelidir:

• Yabancı dil sınavları yeterlilik sınavına girerek istenen puanı elde etmek,
• Lisans eğitimi ve yüksek lisanslarını iyi bir ortalama ile bitirebilmek,
• Yüksek lisans not ortalaması minimum 3.00 olarak kabul edilmektedir,
• 55 ALES puanına sahip olmak,
• Yurtdışı yüksek lisans eğitimi için IELTS veya TOEFL sınavlarında yeterlilik sağlamak.

Phd candidate ne demek

PHD candidate, Türkçe’ye çevirilmek istenirse bize Doktor adayı sonucunu verecektir. Yani gerekli yeterlilikleri tamamladıktan sonra doktoraya başlayan adaylar doktor adayı, PHD candidate veya doktora öğrencisi olarak adlandırılmaktadır.

PHD araştırma süreçleri nelerdir?

PHD araştırma süreçleri, genel olarak aşağıdaki gibi sıralanmaktadır:

• Kaynak tarama
• Araştırma konusunun detaylandırılarak belirlenmesi
• Başlık belirlenmesi (Introduction)
• Özet (Konuyu basit bir şekilde anlatan yazı)
• Araştırma konusu içeriği (Research Context)
• Araştırma soruları (Research Questions)
• Araştırma yöntemi (Research Metodology)
• Araştırma süresi (Research Timeline)
• Bibliyografi (References/ Bibliography)

Türkiye’de kaç kişi PHD yapıyor?

2022 YÖK verilerine göre Türkiye’de toplam 109540 kişi doktora programına kayıtlıdır. Bu kişilerden 53361 kişi kız, 56179 kişi ise erkek öğrencidir.

PHD'nin önemi nedir?

PhD'nin önemi oldukça geniştir ve farklı açılardan değerlendirilebilir. İşte PhD'nin önemine dair bazı anahtar noktalar:

• Uzmanlık Alanında Derinlemesine Bilgi: PhD programları, öğrencilere uzmanlık alanlarında derinlemesine bilgi ve uzmanlık kazandırır. Bu sayede, öğrenciler kapsamlı ve detaylı bir şekilde çalıştıkları konuda uzmanlaşarak, o alandaki en güncel bilgileri ve gelişmeleri takip edebilirler.
• Yenilikçi Araştırma Yeteneği: PhD öğrencileri, orijinal ve yenilikçi araştırmalar yapma becerisi kazanırlar. Bu sayede, bilgi birikimini artırırken aynı zamanda yeni bilgiler ve teoriler üretebilirler. Bu tür araştırmalar, bilimsel ve akademik topluluğun ilerlemesine katkı sağlar.
• Akademik Kariyer İmkanları: PhD, akademik kariyerlerde önemli bir basamaktır. Doktora derecesine sahip olanlar, üniversitelerde öğretim üyeliği yapabilir ve araştırma merkezlerinde çalışabilirler. Ayrıca, doktora derecesi, akademik dünyadaki saygınlığı ve itibarı artırır.
• Mesleki Gelişim ve Liderlik: PhD programları, öğrencilere eleştirel düşünme, problem çözme, liderlik ve iletişim becerilerini geliştirme fırsatı sunar. Bu, mezunların hem akademik hem de iş dünyasında başarılı olmalarını sağlar.
• Toplumsal ve Ekonomik Katkı: PhD sahibi bireyler, topluma ve ekonomiye katkı sağlayan değerli bilgi ve uzmanlıkla donanmış olurlar. Yaptıkları araştırmalar ve çalışmalar, sosyal ve ekonomik problemlerin çözümünde önemli rol oynayabilir.

Doktora en erken kaç yılda biter?

Türkiye'deki doktora programlarının çoğu genellikle dört yıldır. Ancak, yurtdışında bu süre üç ila altı yıl arasında değişebilir. Dolayısıyla, doktora programlarının süresi ülkeye ve programın gerekliliklerine göre değişiklik gösterir. Türkiye'de doktora programları genellikle en az dört yıl sürerken, yurtdışında üç yıldan başlayıp altı yıla kadar uzayabilir.

Nerdler İçin Dünyanın En İyi Mühendislik Okulları

Bütünleşik doktora kaç yıl sürer?

Birleşik doktora programı, yüksek lisans ve doktora eğitimini tek bir çatı altında birleştiren bir öğrenim modelidir ve genellikle 5 yıl süresindedir. Bu programda, öğrenciler hem yüksek lisans hem de doktora düzeyindeki dersleri bir arada alır ve akademik çalışmalarını tamamlarlar. 5 yıl süresince yeterli akademik krediyi başarıyla tamamlayan öğrenciler, doktora derecesini elde etmeye hak kazanır ve mezun olurlar.

MBA Yapmak Ne Kazandırır?

PhD’nin açılımı nedir?

PhD açılımı Doctor of Philosophy ’dir. Türkiye ve dünyadaki en yüksek akademik rütbe doktora programıdır.

PhD kaç yıl sürer?

Türkiye’deki doktora programları 2 dönem doktora eğitimi, 6 dönem de bilimsel araştırma yani tez çalışmaları olarak toplamda 8 yarı dönem (4 yıl) gerçekleşmektedir. Yurtdışı üniversitelerinde bu süre değişkenlik göstermektedir. Örneğin İngiltere’de doktora programı 3 yıl, Amerika Birleşik Devletleri 'nde doktora eğitimi ortalama 4 yıl sürmektedir.

İş Başvurusu Maili Nasıl Yazılır?

PhD ünvanı nasıl kullanılır?

PhD ünvanı, doktora eğitimi alan kişilerin dersleri başarıyla tamamlamış, araştırma sonuçlarının (doktora tezi) başarılı bir şekilde onaylanmış kişilere verilen bir ünvandır.

Sizler için en çok aratılan konular PHD nedir, PHD açılımı nedir, PHD öğrencisi ne demek, Yüksek lisans PHD farkı gibi farklı soruların cevaplarını verdik. Umarız yararlı bilgiler edinebilmişsinizdir.

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• Masters vs PhD – Differences Explained
• Types of Doctorates

The decision of whether or not to pursue a Masters or PhD (or both) after you complete your undergraduate studies is not necessarily a straightforward one. Both are postgraduate degrees but are different in terms of the academic experience and the career paths taken afterwards.

In short, a Masters degree involves a year of study, primarily through taught lectures and a final dissertation research project, whilst a PhD (also referred to as a doctorate degree) is a three-year commitment of independent research on a specific subject.

There’s more to it than that, however – read on for more information.

What Is a Masters Degree?

A Masters degree is the next level of education after the completion of an undergraduate degree, commonly known as a Bachelors.

These degree levels are often referred to in terms of cycles so that a Bachelor’s is a first-cycle degree, a Masters is a second-cycle and finally, a PhD is the third-cycle of higher education (and the highest).

Masters degrees demand an intense period of study, usually centred around a core series of lectures and taught modules, coupled with coursework assignments and exams, followed by the completion of a contained research project usually taking students 3-4 months to complete.

These types of degrees are attractive to recent graduates who want to delve deeper into their specific field of study, gaining some research experience and more specialised knowledge beyond what an undergraduate degree can offer.

Equally, some pursue a Masters degree program in a subject that is only tangentially related to their Bachelors degree, helping them gain a broader depth of knowledge.

These degrees also serve as a significant stepping stone for those already in employment who want to progress their current career development and earn a higher salary. They can also be an excellent method for helping in changing careers completely by learning new skills and subject knowledge.

What Is a PhD Degree?

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the highest academic degree that can be awarded and is the third and final cycle in the progression of higher education.

A doctoral degree is earned on the basis of producing a significant, independent and novel body of work (a Thesis) that contributes new knowledge to a particular research topic.

These are research degrees that are a significant investment of a candidate’s time, resources and energy and are all but a pre-requisite for anyone considering a career in academia, such as eventually becoming a professor.

There are some exceptions to this, such as those with a medical background who may earn an MD (Doctor of Medicine), which is the equivalent of a PhD.

Doctoral degrees can also have a significant positive impact on career development outside of academia, especially in fields such as engineering, business and finance that have a high demand for highly qualified and capable people.

A graduate student engaged in PhD study is commonly known as a PhD student, PhD candidate or doctoral student.

What are the Benefits of a Masters Degree?

There are several reasons one might consider doing a Masters degree rather than a PhD in their graduate education. These include:

• It takes approximately a third of the time to do compared to a doctorate degree and costs less too.
• It’s a good way to differentiate yourself from those that hold only an undergraduate degree without having to commit to a substantial research degree.
• The end goal is more career-focused as opposed to research-focused. For example, it is practically an ‘easier’ route to changing or progressing your career if that aligns with your professional goals.

What are the Benefits of Doing a PhD?

You may continue on into a doctoral program after a Masters or you may even dive straight in after completing your undergraduate studies. So, what are the advantages of completing this third-cycle?

• You’ll have developed a wealth of transferable skills at graduate school, such as effective communication of complex concepts, multi-tasking time-management and the ability to adapt to and solve unexpected problems.
• A doctorate helps to establish you as an expert within your chosen subject area; your work will hopefully have furthered the knowledge in this.
• It will open up career paths and teaching positions within academia that may otherwise be very difficult to get a hold in (although these career paths will still be very competitive).
• You can add the title ‘Dr’ in front of your name!

Which Degree Is More Impactful: A Masters or a PhD?

On paper, the answer should be clear: A doctorate degree is the highest degree you can earn, so has more impact than a Masters, which in turn has more impact than a Bachelors.

The reality is that the size of the impact (if any) really depends on the subject area and the career path you choose (if the measure of impact is how it positively improves your career prospects, that is).

For someone with aspirations of becoming a professor, a PhD will be of greater value than a Masters alone.

Equally, it’s also possible that someone with a PhD entering a different field or one that doesn’t require a PhD may find that their degree has no bearing on their career or in some cases may even be seen as a ‘negative’ with a concern of the person being ‘over-qualified’ for a position. There are many scenarios in which professional experience would be more valuable to an employer than a doctorate degree.

Check out the links below to our interviews with Prof. Debby Cotton and Dr Nikolay Nikolov to read their experiences of when a going through a PhD program has had a clear benefit (Prof. Cotton) and when it hasn’t been helpful (Dr Nikolov).

Do You Need to Have a Masters to do a PhD?

This really depends on the university, department and sometimes even the project and supervisor.

From a purely application process perspective, some institutions may formally require you to hold a Masters degree relevant to the subject of the PhD project before you can enter their doctoral program.

In another scenario, most universities are unlikely to accept candidates that were awarded below a 2:1 (in the UK) in their undergraduate degree but may consider someone who has ‘made up’ for this with a high-grade Masters.

Lastly, some universities now offer PhD programmes that incorporate an additional year of study in which you would complete a Masters degree before carrying directly on into a PhD project. As you’d expect, even if a university doesn’t formally require you to hold one, a Masters degree can help separate you from other applicants in being accepted on the project.

Check out our detailed guide to doing a PhD without a Master’s .

Why Do a Masters before Your PhD?

Even if you don’t need to have one, it could still be beneficial to begin your postgraduate study by doing a Masters first before you embark on your doctorate journey.

As mentioned previously it’ll help you stand out from applicants that don’t have one, but beyond that, it’ll give you a taster of what research life could be like, especially if you stay at the same university and department for your PhD.

The one-year commitment (in the UK at least) of carrying out a Masters first, and in particular your research project, will help you better understand if this is truly something you want to commit the next three or more years to.

You’ll learn some of the skills of independent research, from performing detailed literature searches to more complex, analytical writing.

At the end of it, you should be in a stronger position to consider your options and decide about whether to continue into a PhD at graduate school.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Masters Degree?

In the UK, a full-time Masters degrees take students one calendar year to complete: The programme of study usually starts in September, the final research project the following April and final project viva around August. Part-time degrees are usually double the time.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD?

In the UK, most PhD projects take 3-4 years to complete , as reflected by the majority of funded projects offering stipends to cover living expenses of about 3.5 years.

For many reasons, projects may end up taking longer to complete, however. This might be because of difficulties in collecting enough data, or if the project is being done part-time.

Which One is More Expensive to Do?

As you’d expect, as a PhD takes three times as long to complete as a Masters degree, it will cost you more to do as far as university fees are concerned.

Another thing to consider is that many PhD projects come with some level of funding equivalent to a low salary, which may cover the cost of tuition fees and living expenses, whilst it is usually more difficult to obtain funding for Masters study.

Conversely, a Masters graduate may progress into a higher (versus PhD funding) salary sooner whilst a PhD student will endure three years of a comparatively low income.

A Masters vs a PhD: Conclusion

If you’re considering continue further graduate study after your undergraduate degree, the question of doing a Masters vs a PhD is likely to come up. They are both considered an advanced degree, each with their own advantages.

There are benefits to doing either of these graduate programs or even both of them; your decision here can be easier if you have an idea of the career you want to follow or if you know you have a love for research!

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A Doctor of Philosophy or Doctorate

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More than 54,000 students earned doctoral degrees in 2016, the latest year for which figures are available, a 30 percent increase since 2000, according to the  National Science Foundation . A Ph.D., also called a doctorate, is a "Doctor of Philosophy" degree, which is a misleading moniker because most Ph.D. holders are not philosophers. The term for this increasingly popular degree derives from the original meaning of the word "philosophy," which comes from the ancient Greek word  philosophia , meaning "love of wisdom."

What Is a Ph.D.?

In that sense, the term "Ph.D." is accurate, because the degree has historically been a license to teach, but it also signifies that the holder is an "authority, in full command of (a given) subject right up to the boundaries of current knowledge, and able to extend them," says  FindAPhD , an online Ph.D. database. Earning a Ph.D. requires a hefty financial and time commitment— $35,000 to $60,000  and two to eight years—as well as research, creating a thesis or dissertation, and possibly some teaching duties.

Deciding to pursue a Ph.D. can represent a major life choice. Doctoral candidates require additional schooling after completing a master's program to earn their Ph.D.: They must complete additional coursework, pass comprehensive exams , and complete an independent dissertation in their field. Once completed, though, a doctoral degree—often called a "terminal degree"—can open doors for the Ph.D.holder, especially in academia but also in business.

Core Courses and Electives

To obtain a Ph.D., you need to take a group of core courses as well as electives, totaling about 60 to 62 "hours," which are roughly the equivalent of units at the bachelor's degree level. For example, Washington State University offers a  Ph.D. in crop science . Core courses, which make up about 18 hours, include such subjects as introduction to population genetics, plant transmission genetics, and plant breeding.

Additionally, the student must make up the remaining required hours through electives. The  Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health  offers a doctoral degree in Biological Sciences in Public Health. After core courses such as laboratory rotations, biological sciences seminars, and core principles of biostatistics and epidemiology, the Ph.D. candidate is required to take electives in related fields such as advanced respiratory physiology, advanced respiratory physiology, and ecological and epidemiological control of parasitic diseases. Degree-granting institutions across the board want to ensure that those who earn Ph.D.s have broad knowledge in their chosen field.

Thesis or Dissertation and Research

A Ph.D. also requires students to complete a large scholarly project known as a  dissertation , a research report—usually 60-plus pages—which signifies that they are able to make significant independent contributions to their chosen field of study. Students take on the project, also known as a  doctoral thesis , after completing the core and elective coursework and passing a  comprehensive examination . Through the dissertation, the student is expected to make a new and creative contribution to a field of study and to demonstrate her expertise.

According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, for example, a strong medical dissertation relies heavily on the creation of a specific hypothesis that can be either disproved or supported by data collected through independent student research. Further, it must also contain several key elements starting with an introduction to the problem statement, conceptual framework, and research question as well as references to literature already published on the topic. Students must show that the  dissertation  is relevant, provides new insight into the chosen field, and is a topic that they can research independently.

Financial Aid and Teaching

There are several ways to pay for a doctoral degree: scholarships, grants, fellowships, and government loans, as well as teaching.  GoGrad , a graduate school information website, provides such examples as the:

• Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship for Service Program, which provides full tuition and an annual stipend of $25,000 to $38,000.
• National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship, a three-year graduate fellowship that is designed to support doctoral students across 15 engineering disciplines
• National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program, a three-year program that provides an annual stipend of $34,000 and a $12,000 cost-of-education allowance for tuition and fees

As it does for bachelor's and master's degrees, the federal government also offers several  loan programs  to help students finance their Ph.D. studies. You generally apply for these loans by filling out the free application for federal student aid ( FAFSA ). Students planning to go into teaching after obtaining their doctoral degrees often also supplement their income by teaching undergraduate classes at the schools where they are studying. The University of California, Riverside, for example, offers a "teaching award"—essentially a stipend applied toward tuition costs—for Ph.D. candidates in English who teach undergraduate, beginning-level, English courses

Jobs and Opportunities for Ph.D. Holders

Education accounts for a large percentage doctoral awards, with elementary education, curriculum and instruction, educational leadership and administration, special education, and counselor education/ school counseling topping the list. Most universities in the United States require a Ph.D. for candidates who seek teaching positions, regardless of the department.

Many Ph.D. candidates seek the degree, however, to boost their current salaries. For example, a health, sports, and fitness educator at a community college would realize a bump in annual pay for obtaining a Ph.D. The same holds for educational administrators. Most such positions require only a master's degree, but obtaining a Ph.D. generally leads to an annual stipend that school districts add to the annual salary. That same health and fitness instructor at a community college could also move on from a teaching position and become a dean at a community college—a position that requires a Ph.D.—boosting his pay to  $120,000 to $160,000  a year or more.

So, the opportunities for a doctoral degree holder are wide and varied, but the cost and commitment required are significant. Most experts say you should know your future career plans before you make the commitment. If you know what you want to get out of the degree, then the years of required study and sleepless nights may well be worth the investment.

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What Is a Doctorate Degree?

A doctorate is usually the most advanced degree someone can get in an academic discipline, higher education experts say.

What Is a Doctorate?

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It's unwise to apply to a doctoral program if you don't have a clear idea of how you might use a doctorate in your career.

In many academic disciplines, the most advanced degree one can earn is a doctorate. Doctorate degree-holders are typically regarded as authorities in their fields, and many note that a major reason for pursuing a doctorate is to increase professional credibility.

"If someone wants to be respected as an expert in their chosen field, and also wants to have a wider array of options in research, writing, publishing, teaching, administration, management, and/or private practice, a doctorate is most definitely worth considering," Don Martin, who has a Ph.D. in higher education administration , wrote in an email.

A doctoral degree is a graduate-level credential typically granted after multiple years of graduate school, with the time-to-degree varying depending on the type of doctoral program, experts say.

Earning a doctorate usually requires at least four years of effort and may entail eight years, depending on the complexity of a program's graduation requirements. It also typically requires a dissertation, a lengthy academic paper based on original research that must be vetted and approved by a panel of professors and later successfully defended before them for the doctorate to be granted.

Some jobs require a doctorate, such as certain college professor positions, says Eric Endlich, founder of Top College Consultants, an admissions consulting firm that helps neurodivergent students navigate undergraduate and graduate school admissions.

Endlich earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree, commonly known as a Ph.D., from Boston University in Massachusetts. He focused on psychology and notes that a doctoral degree is generally required to be a licensed psychologist.

"Since a Ph.D. is a research-focused degree, it can be advantageous to those seeking high-level research positions in scientific fields such as astrophysics or biotechnology," he says.

How Long it Takes to Get a Doctorate Degree

Martin, founder and CEO of Grad School Road Map, an organization that helps grad school applicants navigate the admissions process, says obtaining a doctorate is often a lengthy endeavor.

"Typically it can take between four and six years to complete any doctoral program," he says. "If comprehensive examinations and a dissertation are part of the graduation requirements, it may take a year or two longer. There is no standard amount of time – some students take seven to 10 years to finish."

Endlich says doctoral degree hopefuls should be aware that completing a dissertation may take a long time, especially if unexpected hurdles arise.

"My dissertation, for example, involved recruiting college students to complete questionnaires, and it took much longer than I anticipated to recruit enough subjects for my study," he says.

The standards for a dissertation, which include the proposal and research, are rigorous and usually involve a review and approval by a faculty committee, says Hala Madanat, vice president for research and innovation at San Diego State University in California.

"As part of dissertation requirements, some programs will require publication of the research in high-impact peer-reviewed journals," Madanat wrote in an email.

Types of Doctoral Degree Programs

According to professors and administrators of doctoral programs, there are two types of doctorates.

Doctor of Philosophy

A doctor of philosophy degree is designed to prepare people for research careers at a university or in industry, and teach students how to discover new knowledge within their academic discipline. Ph.D. degrees are offered in a wide range of academic subjects, including highly technical fields like biology , physics, math and engineering; social sciences like sociology and economics; and humanities disciplines like philosophy.

A Ph.D. is the most common degree type among tenure-track college and university faculty, who are typically expected to have a doctorate. But academia is not the only path for someone who pursues a Ph.D. It's common for individuals with biology doctorates to work as researchers in the pharmaceutical industry, and many government expert positions also require a Ph.D.

Professional or clinical doctorates

These are designed to give people the practical skills necessary to be influential leaders within a specific industry or employment setting, such as business, psychology , education or nursing . Examples of professional doctoral degrees include a Doctor of Business Administration degree, typically known as a DBA; a Doctor of Education degree, or Ed.D.; and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, or DNP.

A law degree, known as a juris doctor or J.D., as well as a Doctor of Medicine degree, or M.D., are also considered professional doctorates.

How to Get a Doctorate

Getting a doctorate is challenging. It ordinarily requires a series of rigorous classes in a field of study and then passage of a qualification exam in order to begin work on a dissertation, which is the final project.

Dissertations are difficult to write, says David Harpool, vice president of graduate and online programs at Newberry College in South Carolina. Some research indicates that only about half of doctoral students go on to finish their degree, and a main reason is that many never finish and successfully defend their dissertation

"Many of them are in programs that permit them to earn a master’s on the way to a doctorate," Harpool, who earned a Ph.D. from Saint Louis University in Missouri and a J.D. from the University of Missouri , wrote in an email. "The transition from mastering a discipline to creating new knowledge (or at least applying new knowledge in a different way), is difficult, even for outstanding students."

Learn about how M.D.-Ph.D. programs

There is a often a "huge shift in culture" at doctoral programs compared to undergraduate or master's level programs, says Angela Warfield, who earned a Ph.D. in English from the University of Iowa.

Doctoral professors and students have more of a collaborative relationship where they function as colleagues, she says. And there's pressure on each student to produce "significant and original research."

Many full-time doctoral students work for the school as researchers or teaching assistants throughout their program, so time management is crucial to avoid burnout. However, the dissertation "is by far the biggest battle," she says. The goal is to avoid an "ABD," she says, meaning "all but dissertation."

"In my writing group, we had two motivational slogans: 'ABD is not a degree,' and 'a good dissertation is a done dissertation,'" Warfield, now the principal consultant and founder of admissions consulting firm Compass Academics, wrote in an email.

How Are Doctorate Admissions Decisions Made?

Admissions standards for doctoral programs vary depending on the type of doctorate, experts say.

The quality of a candidate's research is a distinguishing factor in admissions decisions, Madanat says. Meanwhile, leaders of clinical and professional doctorate programs say that the quality of a prospective student's work experience matters most.

Doctoral programs typically expect students to have a strong undergraduate transcript , excellent letters of recommendation and, in some cases, high scores on the Graduate Record Examination , or GRE, Endlich says.

"The size of the programs may be relatively small, and universities need to be sure that applicants will be able to handle the demands of their programs," he says.

Because professional doctorates often require students to come up with effective solutions to systemic problems, eligibility for these doctorates is often restricted to applicants with extensive first-hand work experience with these problems, according to recipients of professional doctorates.

In contrast, it's common for Ph.D. students to begin their programs immediately after receiving an undergraduate degree. The admissions criteria at Ph.D. programs emphasize undergraduate grades, standardized test scores and research projects , and these programs don't necessarily require work experience.

Admissions decisions may also depend on available funding, says Madanat, who works with doctoral students to provide funding, workshops and faculty support to help their research.

Who Is a Good Fit for a Doctoral Program?

Doctoral degree hopefuls "should be interested in making a deep impact on their field, open-minded, eager to learn, curious, adaptable and self-motivated," Madanat says. "Doctoral programs are best suited for those whose goals are to transform and change the fields they are studying and want to make a difference in the way the world is."

Someone who loves to study a subject in great depth, can work alone or in teams, is highly motivated and wants to develop research skills may be a good candidate for a doctoral program, Endlich says.

Because of the tremendous effort and time investment involved in earning a doctorate, experts say it's foolish to apply to a doctoral program if it's unclear how you might use a doctorate in your career.

"The students are being trained with depth of knowledge in the discipline to prepare them for critical thinking beyond the current state of the field," Madanat says. "Students should consider the reasons that they are pursuing a doctoral degree and whether or not it aligns with their future professional goals, their family circumstances and finances."

Rachel D. Miller, a licensed marriage and family therapist who completed a Ph.D. degree in couples and family therapy at Adler University in Illinois in 2023, says pursuing a doctorate required her to make significant personal sacrifices because she had to take on large student loans and she needed to devote a lot of time and energy to her program. Miller says balancing work, home life and health issues with the demands of a Ph.D. program was difficult.

For some students, the financial component may be hard to overlook, Warfield notes.

"Student debt is no joke, and students pursuing graduate work are likely only compounding undergraduate debt," she says. "They need to really consider the payoff potential of the time and money sacrifice."

To offset costs, some programs are fully funded, waiving tuition and fees and providing an annual stipend. Some offer health insurance and other benefits. Students can also earn money by teaching at the university or through fellowships, but those adding more to their plate should possess strong time management skills, experts say.

"Graduate school, and higher education in general, can be brutal on your physical and mental health," Miller wrote in an email.

But Miller says the time and effort invested in her doctoral program paid off by allowing her to conduct meaningful research into the best way to provide therapy to children affected by high-conflict divorce and domestic violence. She now owns a therapy practice in Chicago.

Miller urges prospective doctoral students to reflect on whether getting a doctorate is necessary for them to achieve their dream job. "Really know yourself. Know your purpose for pursuing it, because that's what's going to help carry you through."

Searching for a grad school? Access our complete rankings of Best Graduate Schools.

30 Fully Funded Ph.D. Programs

Tags: graduate schools , education , students , academics

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Is a PhD Degree for Me? This is What it Means

Updated: August 7, 2023

Published: December 26, 2019

Wherever you are in your educational journey, you’ve likely heard of the graduate degree called a PhD degree. You may be wondering what is a PhD degree, what are PhD requirements, and what it means to earn a PhD. At this point, you may be questioning if getting a PhD is the right next step for you.

To receive a PhD, you will add the title “Dr.” to you name, but there is much more to it than that. Here, we will dive into what a PhD means, what it takes to earn one, the different kinds of PhD degrees that exist, and the reasons why you may choose to take the path to graduate with one.

What is a PhD?

First thing’s first, let’s define all the ins and outs of what a PhD means. PhD is an abbreviation for “Doctor of Philosophy.”

A PhD is the ultimate academic degree you can earn in a field of choice. To earn a PhD, you must complete original research and evaluate a theory. More often than not, this includes data analysis. This fact is true no matter where you are in the world.

Unlike undergraduate degrees, a PhD is heavily focused on research. As such, lectures are not all that common when working towards earning the degree, but they do still exist. Rather, students will focus particularly on an aspect of the subject choice to create a dissertation. Along with a written thesis, students must present their work orally (known as a “viva voce”) to a group of examiners.

A PhD is recognized around the world as the highest academic achievement. Therefore, no matter where you go, it bears with it an international standard of understanding and a level of respect. It allows for you to be a professor in academia and work in a highly specialized position within the field.

Requirements and Length of Time

While the payoffs of a PhD may seem enticing, the journey to earn your PhD is not an easy or short one.

More often than not, a PhD comes after a master degree. Yet, that’s not always true. Some institutions allow students to skip the master degree and move straight from a bachelor degree into a PhD program.

The time length of a PhD program can vary, but it generally takes three to four years to complete. If a student chooses to study part-time, it could take upwards of six or seven years to graduate.

In order to be accepted into a PhD program, there are a variety of PhD requirements. The most important requirement tends to be proof of high academic standing from your master degree. Some schools may also factor in your bachelor degree grades.

Grades also play a role in assessing the type of funding you may receive. If you have low grades, but still want to pursue a PhD, you’ll likely have to self-fund.

Along with grades, most institutions will also require the following:

1. Proof of language proficiency in the language you will pursue your PhD.

2. resume of work experience and transcript of academic courses., 3. a personal statement sharing your reasons why you want to pursue a phd in your respective field and perhaps why you are choosing the institution., 4. a phd research proposal, which includes:.

• Your proposed research topic
• Experience regarding the subject matter
• Gaps in current knowledge, your understanding of current findings
• Your research methodology
• How your research and its implications will affect the world

Photo by  Wadi Lissa  on  Unsplash

How to get a phd.

Getting a PhD requires planning, research, and commitment. Some schools vary in their requirements to apply, so it’s best practice to create your list of desired schools and research their needs.

You can choose to get a PhD at any age, but it’s best to start thinking proactively when you are moving along your graduate degree program.

Here are the main steps it takes to get a PhD:

1. Get a bachelor’s degree

2. complete the gre, 3. apply to graduate schools, 4. begin master’s or phd program, 5. if master’s, graduate and then apply again for a phd program, 6. complete phd coursework, 7. start research and write a dissertation, 8. share dissertation and get published, 9. graduate with a phd, types of phd.

There are different categories of PhD degrees. However, students only choose between professional and academic. Higher and honorary PhDs are awarded later in one’s career.

These include:

Granted in traditional subjects by performing academic research (PhD/Doctor of Philosophy/Th.D – Doctor of Theology)

Professional

These contribute directly to a specific vocational field (Doctor of Business Administration, Doctor of Engineering, Doctor of Education, Doctor of Social Science, Doctor of Architecture, etc.)

Higher/Honorary

To honor esteemed researchers and professionals, an honorary PhD may be rewarded (Doctor of Divinity, Doctor of Science – Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, Doctor of Science – Arts and Humanities)

Reasons to Get a PhD

Everyone has their own reasons for why they want to get their PhD. Here are some motivations behind why you may choose to pursue the degree:

1. Intellectual challenge:

As the final degree in academics, a PhD will challenge your intellectual abilities.

2. Career goals:

Your chosen career requires that you have the degree (i.e., becoming a professor).

3. Personal passion:

You enjoy the subject matter and want to be an expert in the field.

4. Research:

You have something to contribute or know how to fill a gap in the current information.

Photo by  Abby Chung  from  Pexels

The bottom line.

Earning a Doctor of Philosophy degree is not only for those who wish to become a professor . Whether your future career requires the degree or not, you may still want to pursue the academic challenge.

The most common trait of a PhD relies on research. As such, a government agency or organization may also want to fund you in performing research if you have something worthwhile to contribute to your field of study.

As the ultimate destination in terms of degrees, the title of PhD next to your name is well-respected and universally acknowledged. However, before enrolling in a program, make sure that you have the time, resources, and personal passion to fulfill all the necessary requirements.

Related Articles

Doctor of Philosophy in Education

Additional Information

• Download the Doctoral Viewbook
• Admissions & Aid

The Harvard Ph.D. in Education trains cutting-edge researchers who work across disciplines to generate knowledge and translate discoveries into transformative policy and practice.

Offered jointly by the Harvard Graduate School of Education and the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, the Ph.D. in Education provides you with full access to the extraordinary resources of Harvard University and prepares you to assume meaningful roles as university faculty, researchers, senior-level education leaders, and policymakers.

As a Ph.D. candidate, you will collaborate with scholars across all Harvard graduate schools on original interdisciplinary research. In the process, you will help forge new fields of inquiry that will impact the way we teach and learn. The program’s required coursework will develop your knowledge of education and your expertise in a range of quantitative and qualitative methods needed to conduct high-quality research. Guided by the goal of making a transformative impact on education research, policy, and practice, you will focus on independent research in various domains, including human development, learning and teaching, policy analysis and evaluation, institutions and society, and instructional practice.   

Curriculum Information

The Ph.D. in Education requires five years of full-time study to complete. You will choose your individual coursework and design your original research in close consultation with your HGSE faculty adviser and dissertation committee. The requirements listed below include the three Ph.D. concentrations: Culture, Institutions, and Society; Education Policy and Program Evaluation; and Human Development, Learning and Teaching . 

We invite you to review an example course list, which is provided in two formats — one as the full list by course number and one by broad course category . These lists are subject to modification. 

Ph.D. Concentrations and Examples

Summary of Ph.D. Program

Doctoral Colloquia  In year one and two you are required to attend. The colloquia convenes weekly and features presentations of work-in-progress and completed work by Harvard faculty, faculty and researchers from outside Harvard, and Harvard doctoral students. Ph.D. students present once in the colloquia over the course of their career.

Research Apprenticeship The Research Apprenticeship is designed to provide ongoing training and mentoring to develop your research skills throughout the entire program.

Teaching Fellowships The Teaching Fellowship is an opportunity to enhance students' teaching skills, promote learning consolidation, and provide opportunities to collaborate with faculty on pedagogical development.

Comprehensive Exams  The Written Exam (year 2, spring) tests you on both general and concentration-specific knowledge. The Oral Exam (year 3, fall/winter) tests your command of your chosen field of study and your ability to design, develop, and implement an original research project.

Dissertation  Based on your original research, the dissertation process consists of three parts: the Dissertation Proposal, the writing, and an oral defense before the members of your dissertation committee.

Culture, Institutions, and Society (CIS) Concentration

In CIS, you will examine the broader cultural, institutional, organizational, and social contexts relevant to education across the lifespan. What is the value and purpose of education? How do cultural, institutional, and social factors shape educational processes and outcomes? How effective are social movements and community action in education reform? How do we measure stratification and institutional inequality? In CIS, your work will be informed by theories and methods from sociology, history, political science, organizational behavior and management, philosophy, and anthropology. You can examine contexts as diverse as classrooms, families, neighborhoods, schools, colleges and universities, religious institutions, nonprofits, government agencies, and more.

Education Policy and Program Evaluation (EPPE) Concentration

In EPPE, you will research the design, implementation, and evaluation of education policy affecting early childhood, K–12, and postsecondary education in the U.S. and internationally. You will evaluate and assess individual programs and policies related to critical issues like access to education, teacher effectiveness, school finance, testing and accountability systems, school choice, financial aid, college enrollment and persistence, and more. Your work will be informed by theories and methods from economics, political science, public policy, and sociology, history, philosophy, and statistics. This concentration shares some themes with CIS, but your work with EPPE will focus on public policy and large-scale reforms.

Human Development, Learning and Teaching (HDLT) Concentration

In HDLT, you will work to advance the role of scientific research in education policy, reform, and practice. New discoveries in the science of learning and development — the integration of biological, cognitive, and social processes; the relationships between technology and learning; or the factors that influence individual variations in learning — are transforming the practice of teaching and learning in both formal and informal settings. Whether studying behavioral, cognitive, or social-emotional development in children or the design of learning technologies to maximize understanding, you will gain a strong background in human development, the science of learning, and sociocultural factors that explain variation in learning and developmental pathways. Your research will be informed by theories and methods from psychology, cognitive science, sociology and linguistics, philosophy, the biological sciences and mathematics, and organizational behavior.

Program Faculty

The most remarkable thing about the Ph.D. in Education is open access to faculty from all Harvard graduate and professional schools, including the Harvard Graduate School of Education, the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, the Harvard Kennedy School, the Harvard Law School, Harvard Medical School, and the Harvard School of Public Health. Learn about the full Ph.D. Faculty.

Jarvis R. Givens

Jarvis Givens studies the history of American education, African American history, and the relationship between race and power in schools.

Paul L. Harris

Paul Harris is interested in the early development of cognition, emotion, and imagination in children.

Meira Levinson

Meira Levinson is a normative political philosopher who works at the intersection of civic education, youth empowerment, racial justice, and educational ethics. 

Luke W. Miratrix

Luke Miratrix is a statistician who explores how to best use modern statistical methods in applied social science contexts.

Eric Taylor

Eric Taylor studies the economics of education, with a particular interest in employer-employee interactions between schools and teachers — hiring and firing decisions, job design, training, and performance evaluation.

Paola Uccelli

Paola Ucelli studies socio-cultural and individual differences in the language development of multilingual and monolingual students.

View Ph.D. Faculty

Dissertations.

The following is a complete listing of successful Ph.D. in Education dissertations to-date. Dissertations from November 2014 onward are publicly available in the Digital Access to Scholarship at Harvard (DASH) , the online repository for Harvard scholarship.

• 2022 Graduate Dissertations (265 KB pdf)
• 2021 Graduate Dissertations (177 KB pdf)
• 2020 Graduate Dissertations (121 KB pdf)
• 2019 Graduate Dissertations (68.3 KB pdf)

Student Directory

An opt-in listing of current Ph.D. students with information about their interests, research, personal web pages, and contact information:

Doctor of Philosophy in Education Student Directory

Introduce Yourself

Tell us about yourself so that we can tailor our communication to best fit your interests and provide you with relevant information about our programs, events, and other opportunities to connect with us.

Program Highlights

Explore examples of the Doctor of Philosophy in Education experience and the impact its community is making on the field:

Reshaping Teacher Licensure: Lessons from the Pandemic

Olivia Chi, Ed.M.'17, Ph.D.'20, discusses the ongoing efforts to ensure the quality and stability of the teaching workforce

Lost in Translation

New comparative study from Ph.D. candidate Maya Alkateb-Chami finds strong correlation between low literacy outcomes for children and schools teaching in different language from home

PhD Ne Demek? Açılımı Nedir? Ne Kadar Sürer? PhD MS Tanımı

PhD , lisansüstü eğitimin ardından alınan doktora eğitimini ifade eden bir kısaltmadır. PhD programları, alana göre değişmek ile birlikte genellikle 4 yıl sürmektedir.

PhD açılımı şu şekildedir; PhD, Latince Philosophie Doctor söz öbeğinin kısaltılmış halidir. Felsefe doktoru anlamına gelmektedir. Ancak bu unvanı almak için felsefe alanında doktora yapılmasına gerek yoktur, philosopie sözcüğü burada bilgi sevgisi anlamında kullanılmıştır. Yani alanı üzerinde en üst düzey araştırmaları yapan kişi manasına gelmektedir. PhD aslında tüm doktora dallarını kapsamaz, doktora programları içinde bir alt daldır. Ancak temel bilimler, mühendislik, ekonomi, hukuk gibi pek çok farklı alandaki doktora programları PhD programlarıdır.

PhD Unvanı Ne Demek?

İçindekiler

PhD unvanı, doktora eğitimini tamamlamış kişilere verilen bir unvandır. Kişinin doktora eğitiminde gereken dersleri aldığı ve kabul edilen bir doktora tezi yazdığı anlamına gelmektedir. Tıp doktoru olmayan kişiler doktor unvanını ancak PhD yaptıklarını belirterek kullanabilir.

PhD Seviyesi Nedir?

PhD seviyesi, doktora düzeyinde yürütülen eğitim faaliyetleri anlamına gelir. Aynı zamanda doktora eğitimini tamamlamış kişiler için de kullanılır. PhD seviyesinde eğitim almış kişiler, alanları hakkında detaylı dersler almış ve kapsamlı bilimsel araştırmalar yürütmüştür.

PhD Ne Kadar Sürer?

PhD programlarının süresi çalışılan alana göre değişmek ile birlikte genellikle 4 yıl sürer. 4 yıllık programların iki yılı ders, iki yılı ise tez hazırlığı aşamalarından oluşur. Bütünleşik doktora olarak bilinen PhD programları beş ila yedi yıl sürebilmektedir. Bu programlar, yüksek lisans eğitimine katılmadan doktora eğitimi alınmaya başlanan programlardır. Lisans eğitimini tamamlayan kişiler bütünleşik doktora programları aracılığı ile doğrudan PhD eğitimine başlayabilir. Bu nedenle bu programların süresi daha uzundur.

Doktora En Erken Kaç Yılda Biter?

Türkiye’deki hemen hemen tüm doktora programları dört yıllıktır. Yurtdışında ise doktora programlarının süresi üç ila altı yıl arasında değişebilmektedir. Bu nedenle Türkiye’de doktora en az dört en çok 7 yılda tamamlanırken, yurtdışı doktora programları en az üç, en çok altı yıl sürmektedir.

İngiltere’de Doktora Kaç Yıl Sürer?

İngiltere’de doktora programlarının süresi üç ila 6 yıl arasında değişebilmektedir. Doktoranın yapılacağı alana göre doktora süresi değişir. Genellikle temel bilimler ve mühendislik alanındaki doktora programları daha uzun sürelidir. Kimi doktora programları belirli araştırma ve projelere katılım biçiminde gerçekleşmektedir. Bu türden programlara kabul edilmek daha zordur, ve süreleri araştırmanın süresine göre değişebilir. Ancak bu türden programlara katılımda burs alma şansı daha fazladır.

Yüksek Lisans ve Doktora Kaç Yıl Sürer?

Ülkemizde yüksek lisans programları iki yıl, doktora programları dört yıl sürer. Yani yüksek lisans ve doktorayı hiç sene kaybetmeden 6 yılda bitirmek mümkündür. Yurtdışında yüksek lisans ve doktora programlarının uzunluğu üniversiteden üniversiteye değişmektedir. Yüksek lisans programlarının süresi bir ila üç yıl arasında değişirken, doktora programları üç ila altı yıl sürebilir.

Ülkemizde sayıları giderek azalmakla birlikte, yabancı ülkelerin bir kısmında bütünleşik doktora programları bulunmaktadır. Bu programlar lisans derecesini bitirmiş öğrencileri kabul eder. Bütünleşik doktora programlarının süresi normal doktora programından daha uzun olsa da bu program sonucu hem yüksek lisans hem de doktora derecesi elde edilebilir. Genellikle bütünleşik doktora programlarının giriş koşulları oldukça ağırdır.

Dr Öğretim Üyesi Ne Oluyor?

Dr Öğretim Üyesi, yardımcı doçentlik yerine getirilmiş bir unvandır. Üniversitede kadrolu ders veren, doktorasını tamamlamış ancak henüz doçentliğini almamış akademisyenlere doktor öğretim üyesi unvanı verilmektedir. Bu unvan 2018 yılından beri akademide kullanılmaktadır. 2018 yılından önce doktor öğretim üyesi unvanı yerine yardımcı doçent unvanı kullanılmaktaydı.

Hukuk Doktorası Kaç Yıl Sürer?

Hukuk doktorası 4 yıl yani 8 yarı yıl sürer. 4 yıl boyunca 90 akts doldurulduğunda ve “Doktora Yeterlilik Sınavına Hazırlık” dersinden 30 akts’yi doldurmuş kişiler doktorasını tamamlayabilir.

Bütünleşik Doktora Kaç Yıl Sürer?

Bütünleşik doktora yüksek lisans ve doktoranın tek çatı altında birleştirilmesidir ve 5 yıl sürmektedir. 5 yılda yeterli akts’yi alanlar doktorasını başarıyla tamamlar.

Doktora 4 Yıl Sürer Mi?

Doktora 8 dönem yani 4 yıl sürer. 4.yılın sonunda yeterli akts’yi doldurduysanız ve savunmanızı başarılı bir şekilde yaptıysanız başardınız demektir.

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What Does Ph.D. Stand For?

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Ever wondered why someone with the title “Doctor of Philosophy” isn’t necessarily pondering the mysteries of existence like Descartes or Nietzsche? That’s because the term encompasses many disciplines beyond its traditional confines. Whether it’s exploring the mysteries of the cosmos, deciphering intricate economic systems or unraveling the complexities of human behavior, a Ph.D. can be earned in any field ranging from science and economics to humanities and beyond. 

In this article, we’ll explore the multifaceted world of Ph.D. studies, beginning with the fundamental question: What does Ph.D. stand for? 

Beyond merely defining the acronym, we provide crucial information to assist you in determining whether pursuing this advanced degree aligns with your goals, aspirations and intellectual passions.

Meaning of Ph.D.

A Ph.D., short for Doctor of Philosophy, is an esteemed academic degree marking the pinnacle of in-depth study and innovative research in a specific area of expertise. Attaining a Ph.D. involves not just a broad mastery of the field at large but also acquiring specialized knowledge and insights into a distinct facet of that discipline.

For instance, pursuing a Ph.D. in literature involves acquiring a thorough understanding of literary theory and criticism while also focusing deeply on a particular literary period or genre, such as Victorian literature, postcolonial literature, or contemporary poetry. This process ensures that Ph.D. candidates achieve a comprehensive grasp of their broader discipline while also cultivating an expert-level specialization.

Education Requirements for a Ph.D.

In order to pursue a Ph.D. program, you must first fulfill some education prerequisites. Both a bachelor’s degree and often a master’s degree serve as essential stepping stones toward this advanced academic pursuit.

Bachelor’s degree

A bachelor’s degree is a fundamental requirement for individuals who aspire to pursue higher education, including Ph.D. studies. Although having a major directly related to the intended Ph.D. field is not mandatory, it can undoubtedly provide a beneficial foundation for handling advanced coursework. Therefore, aligning undergraduate studies with future graduate pursuits can significantly ease the transition into more advanced academic pursuits, ensuring a smoother progression through graduate coursework.

Master’s degree

To be eligible for Ph.D. programs, candidates typically need to have completed a master’s degree. The duration of a master’s degree program can vary depending on whether a student is enrolled part-time or full-time, but typically it lasts between one and three years. 

Maintaining a high GPA during master’s studies can improve your chances of getting into a Ph.D. program. Generally, a GPA of 3.0 or higher is seen as favorable. However, this can vary based on factors like your field of study and the program’s competitiveness.

How Long Does a Ph.D. Take?

The typical duration of a Ph.D. program ranges from five to six years, yet this timeframe can vary significantly depending on the academic field and individual circumstances.

Several factors play a pivotal role in determining the length of Ph.D. studies. Firstly, the depth and breadth of the research project can significantly influence the timeline. The dissertation phase, which involves original research, data analysis, and presenting your findings, often requires a considerable amount of time. Secondly, the availability of funding and resources is crucial. Access to financial support and adequate research facilities can either speed up the process or cause delays.

Moreover, specific program or institutional requirements, such as compulsory coursework, teaching commitments, or comprehensive exams, may affect the overall timeline. These obligations can increase the academic workload, potentially prolonging the time necessary to fulfill all degree requirements.

The Process of Obtaining a Ph.D.

The process of obtaining a Ph.D. is a journey that involves passing through various milestones and academic achievements, each contributing to the culmination of advanced scholarly expertise. Let’s go through some of the steps below: 

Completing coursework

Coursework is a foundational step in the Ph.D. process, helping students cultivate profound subject-matter expertise and establish essential knowledge within the field. These courses equip students with the requisite theoretical framework and shape potential dissertation research topics.

Completing one or more doctoral residency experiences

Doctoral residencies provide a structured platform for refining research skills, receiving guidance, and engaging in scholarly discourse. Often conducted virtually, these experiences allow students to focus on specific study and dissertation preparation activities while fostering connections with faculty and peers for invaluable mentorship and collaboration.

Passing a comprehensive assessment or exam

The purpose of the comprehensive examination process is to comprehensively evaluate the student’s depth of knowledge in their area of specialization and their familiarity with the published research within the field. Additionally, the examination verifies whether the student possesses the critical thinking and analytical skills required for dissertation research.

Developing and completing an independent research project

The dissertation is a comprehensive written document that typically consists of five chapters and addresses a unique question or problem within the field. Faculty experts and the ethical review board play integral roles in assessing the rigor and ethical aspects of the research project, ensuring scholarly integrity and adherence to ethical guidelines.

Seeking approval of your completed dissertation manuscript

The approval process entails evaluation by a faculty committee and the school dean, culminating in a final defense where students defend their research, analysis, and conclusions. Meeting specific professional standards, as applicable to the field, is often a requirement before the publication of the approved dissertation, marking the culmination of the Ph.D. journey.

Career Opportunities for Ph.D. Holders

Ph.D. holders are equipped with a wealth of specialized knowledge and advanced skills, opening doors to many career opportunities that vary depending on their field of study. The roles they can pursue encompass a wide range of leadership, managerial, research, academic, and consulting positions, such as:

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5 Reasons to Get a Ph.D.

The decision to pursue a Ph.D. is a significant one that holds the potential to shape both your career trajectory and personal growth. Here are five compelling reasons why pursuing a Ph.D. may be worth considering:

Become an expert in the field

One of the primary motivations for pursuing a Ph.D. is the opportunity to become an expert in a specific field. Obtaining expert-level knowledge allows you to contribute significantly to your chosen field while providing you with a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment. 

You can make a difference through research

The true value of a Ph.D. lies in the potential to make a positive impact through research. Across various fields, impactful research has the power to drive innovation, solve pressing societal challenges, and advance human knowledge. Whether it’s discovering new treatments for diseases, developing sustainable technologies, or understanding complex social phenomena, Ph.D. research has the potential to change the world for the better.

Broaden your job opportunities

In today’s competitive job market, a Ph.D. can set you apart from the crowd. While it’s highly relevant for academic careers, a Ph.D. also opens doors to diverse opportunities in industries ranging from technology and healthcare to finance and government. Employers value the advanced research, analytical, and critical thinking skills that Ph.D. holders bring to the table, making them highly sought after in various professional settings.

Increase your salary potential

Earning a Ph.D. can lead to significant financial benefits in the long run. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , Ph.D. holders typically command higher salaries and have lower unemployment rates. While the journey toward a Ph.D. may require dedication and perseverance, the potential for increased earning potential is a compelling incentive for many aspiring scholars.

You can reach your full potential

Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of pursuing a Ph.D. is the opportunity for personal growth and development. Along the way, you’ll acquire valuable skills, including resilience, problem-solving, and effective communication, that will serve you well professionally and personally. By pushing yourself to tackle complex problems and overcome obstacles, you’ll reach your full potential not only as a scholar but also as an individual ready to leave their mark and make a meaningful difference in the world.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, Ph.D. programs are indispensable components of the academic journey for individuals seeking to enhance their expertise, enrich scholarly knowledge, and pursue fulfilling careers in academia, industry, and beyond. 

As you reflect on your academic and professional aspirations, consider the transformative potential of pursuing a Ph.D. program tailored to your passions and ambitions. So, dare to delve deeper, embrace the challenge, and pursue this path of intellectual discovery and personal growth.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is a ph.d. harder than a master’s degree.

While both degrees require significant dedication and effort, a Ph.D. typically involves more extensive research and independent study, making it a more demanding academic pursuit than a master’s degree.

Which is higher: Ph.D. or doctorate?

A Ph.D. lies within the category of doctorate degrees, so one is not inherently higher than the other.

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Doctor of Design Program (DDes)

Professor Martin Bechthold advises students at Autodesk's BUILD Space in Boston.

The Doctor of Design (DDes) program at the Harvard Graduate School of Design is a leading doctoral degree program for highly creative and motivated professionals who wish to conduct rigorous, intensive design research.

The program is geared towards applied research that advances design related knowledge in a broad range of scales from product design to buildings and landscapes to urban design and regional planning. Common to the diverse range of DDes research investigations is the belief that design research makes essential contributions to understanding, analyzing and ultimately improving the built environment in our increasingly complex world.

DDes research is often multidisciplinary and encompasses a broad range and combination of theoretical, applied and technological topics that represent the cutting edge of applied design investigation. DDes research is intimately linked to ongoing investigations of the GSD’s research labs and programs that integrate many DDes students both intellectually and operationally as investigators in ongoing research projects.

Research topics are proposed during admission and are decided upon entry into the program. Student research should align with current faculty research interests, allowing for affiliations with faculty and, possibly, the research labs. Applicants are expected to clearly articulate their research topics in the application by submitting a concise and well-structured research proposal. Typical research areas include studies in urban design and theory, landscape urbanism, novel design techniques and technologies including material systems, design computation, and building technologies, planning and real estate studies, and theoretical investigations of emerging trends in digital design culture. Thesis topics investigate more specific issues within individual or combined research areas, and do not necessarily correspond to individual academic disciplines. Instead, they are often interdisciplinary in nature, involving faculty and resources from other graduate schools at Harvard and contribute to expanding the intellectual range of design research.

The DDes program is highly regarded internationally, and DDes alumni have become thought leaders in their respective fields. Their work promotes and advances improvements of the built and the natural environment worldwide. They hold prestigious positions in private practice, industry, government and academia.

We invite you to review the program details at left. Please feel free to  contact us for more information.

Ali Malkawi Professor of Architectural Technology Director of the Doctor of Design Studies Program Founding Director of the Harvard Center for Green Buildings and Cities

30 Best Online PhD Programs [2024 Ultimate Guide]

Explore Online PhD Programs from accredited colleges offering online PhD, DBA, EdD, PsyD, DNP – 100% online. Accelerated classes are available.

With millions of Americans now pursuing and completing graduate degrees, employers have their pick of the most qualified and trained employees in their field.

The U.S. Census Bureau reported that in the last decade, about one million Americans earned a PhD. Many fields, like education and the humanities, value doctoral degrees. A person who holds a PhD is almost guaranteed to have higher level critical thinking and problem solving skills.

If you currently have a bachelor’s degree or even a master’s degree and are considering pursuing a doctoral degree, consider accelerated PhD programs online if they are available in your field.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

List of 30 Online PhD Programs (and related doctoral programs)

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. Andrews University

Located in Berrin Springs, Michigan, Andrews University was established in 1874. It is affiliated with the Seventh Day Adventist Church.

The university offers PhD programs in Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, Higher Education Administration, and various concentrations in Leadership. These programs have various credit requirements ranging between 61 and 94. The programs can be completed in 5-6 years on a full-time basis.

• PhD Curriculum and Instruction
• PhD Educational Leadership
• PhD Higher Education Administration
• PhD Leadership

Andrews is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

2. Catholic University of America

Established in 1887, the Catholic University of America is located in Washington, DC.

The PhD in Nursing program is offered by the university’s Conway School of Nursing and requires 79 credit hours. Students can transfer in 24 credit hours from graduate course-work if they have been successful in comprehensive exams.

• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nursing

CUA is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education

3. Central Michigan University

Located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, Central Michigan University was established in 1892. It has more than 60 other locations worldwide.

The online PhD program in Educational Technology requires 54 credits and consists of 12 courses followed by a dissertation. The program is in an online cohort format with no face-to-face requirements.

• Doctor of Educational Technology

CMU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

4. Clemson University

Consisting of 7 colleges, Clemson University was established in 1889 and located in Clemson, South Carolina.

The online PhD programs are offered in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management (60 credit hours), Rhetoric, Communication & Information Design (on-campus to defend dissertation), and in Healthcare Genetics (70 credit hours).

Out-of-state applicants must check whether the program is available in their states.

• Ph.D. in Healthcare Genetics (HCG)
• Ph.D. in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management (PRTM)
• Ph.D. in Rhetorics, Communication, and Information Design

Clemson is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

5. Colorado State University

Located in Fort Collins, Colorado, Colorado State University was established in 1870.

The online PhD programs offered by the university are the 60-credit PhD in Higher Education Leadership (can be completed in 5 years) and the 72-credit PhD in Systems Engineering (varies based on previous coursework and intensity of study).

• Higher Education Leadership Ph.D.
• Systems Engineering Ph.D.

Colorado State is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

6. Concordia University Chicago

Founded in the Lutheran tradition, Concordia University Chicago was established in 1863 and is located in River Forest, Illinois.

The 100% online PhD in Leadership: Gerontology program has a course length of 8 weeks. Students must complete 58 credit hours. The application deadline is rolling and is in a synchronous format with 3 or 4-year tracts being available.

• PhD in Leadership: Gerontology

Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

7. George Fox University

Located in Newburg, Oregon, George Fox University is a Christian institution that was originally founded in 1891 as a school for Quakers.

The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program is delivered in the online format with an annual residency of one week on campus. There is a 56-credit-hour requirement to complete the course, and it takes 3 years to complete.

• Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

George Fox is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

8. George Washington University

Established in 1821, George Washington University is located in Washington, DC.

The online PhD in Nursing program consists of 57 credit hours with some on-campus requirements and is delivered in a synchronous format.

The online PhD in Systems Engineering program consists of 54 credit hours and must be completed within 5 years.

• Online Ph.D. in Nursing
• Online Ph.D. in Systems Engineering

George Washington is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

9. Hampton University

Located in Hampton, Virginia, Hampton University is a historically black university established in 1888.

The university offers PhD programs in Business Administration (61 credit hours), Counselor Education & Supervision (61 credit hours), Educational Management (66 credits), and Nursing (54-60 credit hours).

A DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) program (33 credit hours) is also available.

• PhD in Business Administration
• PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision
• PhD in Educational Management

Hampton U is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

10. Indiana University

Established in 1820, Indiana University is located in Bloomington, Indiana.

The PhD in Nursing Science program (90 credit hours) is delivered 80-99% online in a hybrid, distance-accessible format, with synchronous video-conferencing to provide classroom interaction and two on-campus intensives to interact with peers and faculty.

• Ph.D. in Nursing Science

Indiana U is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

11. Iowa State University

As the largest university in the state of Iowa, Iowa State University is located in Ames, Iowa and was established in 1856.

The PhD program in Apparel Merchandising and Design is delivered in a hybrid format. It features 1-2 on-campus summer coursework sessions and has a 72-credit-hour requirement to complete the degree.

• Apparel, Merchandising, and Design – Doctor of Philosophy

Iowa State University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

12. Keiser University

Located in West Palm Beach, Florida, Keiser University was established in 1977.

The university offers a flexibly designed Doctor of Business Administration program that is delivered 100% online. Students can benefit from being able to pursue their careers, along with enhancing their educational qualifications. The program is offered at multiple locations in Florida.

• Business Administration, DBA

Keiser is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

13. Liberty University

Established in 1971, Liberty University is an Evangelical Christian university located in Lynchburg, Virginia.

The university offers a range of PhD programs in Bible Exposition, Communication, Counselor Education and Supervision, Criminal Justice, Education, Higher Education Administration, History, Nursing-Nursing Education, Psychology, Public Policy, Strategic Media Online.

Most are 100% online, delivered in an 8-week course format.

• Ph.D. in Bible Exposition
• Ph.D. in Communication
• Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
• Ph.D. in Criminal Justice
• Ph.D. in Education
• Ph.D. in Higher Education Admin
• Ph.D. in History
• Ph.D. in Nursing – Nursing Education
• Ph.D. in Psychology
• Ph.D. in Public Policy
• Ph.D. in Strategic Media Online

Liberty is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

14. Medical University of South Carolina

Located in Charleston, South Carolina, the Medical University of South Carolina was established in 1824.

The university’s College of Nursing offers both full-time and part-time PhD in Nursing programs. Both have 52 semester hours of coursework and 9 semester-hours for dissertation requirement and a 3-4-year plan of study. Only 10-12 students are accepted per year.

• PhD Nursing Science

MUSC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

15. Mississippi State University

Chartered in 1878, Mississippi State University is located adjacent to Starkville, Mississippi.

The university offers PhD programs in Aerospace/Civil Engineering, Community College Leadership, Computational Engineering, Electrical, and Computer Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering.

Students must complete at least 50 hours of coursework beyond the master’s degree, of which at least 20 are allotted to dissertation research.

• Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering
• Ph.D. in Civil Engineering
• Ph.D. in Community College Leadership
• Ph.D. in Computational Engineering
• Ph.D. in Electrical & Computer Engineering
• Ph.D. in Industrial and Systems Engineering
• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

Mississippi State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

16. Nova Southeastern University

With its main campus located in Davie, Florida, Nova Southeastern University was established in 1964.

The university offers online PhD programs in Conflict Analysis and Resolution (76 credit hours), Criminal Justice (60 credit hours), Nursing (60 credit hours), and Occupational Therapy (61 credit hours).

The university has 18 schools and colleges that offer 150 different programs, and students can select the appropriate one.

• Ph.D. in Conflict Analysis & Resolution
• Ph.D. in Nursing
• Ph.D. in Occupational Therapy

Nova Southeastern is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

17. Texas Tech University

Established in 1923, Texas Tech University is located in Lubbock, Texas.

The university offers several online PhD programs across its different schools and colleges, in Curriculum and Instruction (63 credit hours) in three different tracks, Educational Leadership Policy (60 credit hours), Family and Consumer Science Education (72 credit hours), Special Education (90 credit hours), Systems Engineering and Management (72 credit hours), and Technical Communication and Rhetoric (60 credit hours).

• Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction (Track in Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction (Track in Language, Diversity & Literacy Studies)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction (Track in STEM)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership Policy
• Doctor of Philosophy in Family and Consumer Science Education
• Doctor of Philosophy in Special Education

Texas Tech is accredited with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

18. University at Buffalo – SUNY

The State University of New York at Buffalo has campuses in Amherst and Buffalo and was founded in 1846. It had several notable alumni on its rolls.

The university offers an online PhD in Information Science (72 credits) with the requirement of a one-week residency per year. Students can complete the course in 4-5 years.

• Curriculum, Instruction and the Science of Learning, PhD
• Information Science, PhD

UB – SUNY is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education,

19. University of Alabama

Established in 1820, the University of Alabama is located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

The Bama By Distance online learning program offers a PhD in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics. The 72-credit-hour programs are designed for aerospace engineers with 5+ years’ experience in the field.

It is delivered primarily online with a campus visit requirement once each semester to meet faculty adviser.

• PhD in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics

UA is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

20. University of Arkansas

Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, the University of Arkansas was established in 1871.

It has been judged to have one of the Best Online Programs in Grad Education by U.S. News & World Report . Online doctoral programs offered are Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership, Doctor of Education in Human Resource & Workforce Education, Doctor of Education Adult & Lifelong Learning, and Doctor of Nursing Practice.

• Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
• Online Doctor of Education in Human Resource and Workforce Development Education
• Online Doctor of Nursing Practice

UArk is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

21. University of Florida

Founded in 1893, it is located in Gainesville, Florida.

Online PhD programs offered are in Latin & Roman Studies (60 credit hours, with 30 hours of doctoral work on-campus) and Classical Civilization (60 credit-hours with 30 hours of doctoral work on-campus). Written examinations and public defense of the dissertation are required.

• Classical Civilization (Ph.D.)
• Latin and Roman Studies (Ph.D.)

UFL is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

22. University of Louisiana at Monroe

Located in Monroe, Louisiana, the University of Louisiana at Monroe was established in 1931.

The university offers an online PhD program in Marriage and Family Therapy with a concentration in Systemic Studies. It consists of 60 semester-units, two years of full-time course-work, and dissertation.

• PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy with a concentration in Systemic Studies

ULM is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

23. University of Missouri

Located in Columbia, Missouri, the University of Missouri was founded in 1893.

Online PhD programs include a PhD in Agricultural Education & Leadership (72 credit hours, blended delivery mode) and aPhD in Human Environmental Sciences (emphasis architectural studies, 30 credit hours, delivery 100% online).

• Doctor of philosophy in agricultural education and leadership (PhD)
• Doctor of philosophy in human environmental sciences with an emphasis in architectural studies (PhD)

Mizzou is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

24. University of Nebraska – Lincoln

The state’s oldest university, it is located in Lincoln, Nebraska and was founded in 1869.

The online blended/hybrid Doctor of Education degree in Educational Studies (specialization: Higher Education & Educational Leadership) has a 90-credit-hour and a short residency requirement.

• PhD in Educational Studies (90 cr) with a specialization in Educational Leadership and Higher Education

UN – Lincoln is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

25. University of North Dakota

Established in 1883, the University of North Dakota is located in Grand Forks, North Dakota.

Online PhD programs are offered in Aerospace Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Energy Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, and Nursing, all requiring 90 credit-hours. Indigenous Health requires 30 credit hours.

• Aerospace Sciences (Ph.D.)
• Biomedical Engineering (Ph.D.)
• Chemical Engineering (Ph.D.)
• Electrical Engineering (Ph.D.)
• Energy Engineering (Ph.D.)
• Environmental Engineering (Ph.D.)
• Indigenous Health (Ph.D.)
• Nursing (Ph.D.)
• Petroleum Engineering (Ph.D.)

UND is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

26. University of South Dakota

Located in Vermilion, South Dakota, the university was founded in 1862.

The online PhD in Health Sciences program is designed for working professionals. It has a 72-credit-hour requirement and is delivered in an online format with limited expectations for face-to-face contact. The residency includes orientation, dissertation boot-camp, and dissertation defense.

• Online Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences

USD is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

27. University of Southern California

The oldest research university in California, established in 1880, the university is located in Los Angeles, California.

Online doctoral programs include a Doctorate of Social Work, Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership, and Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership.

• Doctorate of Social Work Online
• Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership online
• Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership online

The University of Southern California  is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

28. University of Texas at Tyler

Established in 1971, the University of Texas at Tyler is located in Tyler, Texas on a park-like campus on Harvey Lake.

The university offers online PhD programs in Clinical Psychology (99 credit hours), Nursing (60 credit hours), and Human Resource Development (hybrid, 60 credit hours). Scholarships and financial support are available based on eligibility.

• PhD in Clinical Psychology
• PhD in Nursing

UTT is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

29. University of the Cumberlands

Established in 1888, this Baptist Christian university is located in Williamsburg, Kentucky.

The online programs include a PhD in Business (66 credit hours), Counselor Education and Supervision (66 credit hours), and Leadership Studies (66 credit hours). Some courses may have online meeting times.

• online PhD in Business
• online PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision
• online PhD in Leadership Studies

UCumberlands is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

30. Virginia Commonwealth University

Located in Richmond, Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University was established in 1838.

The 100% online PhD in Nursing can be taken either on a full or part-time basis. There is a 61 minimum credit hour requirement, and the program is delivered 100% online.

VCU  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Types of Online PhD Programs

There are as many PhD Programs as there are fields of knowledge. Here are the most popular. Click on one you’re interested in to jump to that section of the page.

Business Administration

Criminal justice, curriculum & instruction, educational leadership, healthcare management, higher education, homeland security, human resources, information technology, management information systems, nurse practitioner (rn required), nursing education (rn required), organizational leadership, project management, public administration, public health, public policy, special education, supply chain and logistics.

A growing number of universities now offer a wide-range of doctoral programs online.

A PhD in Accounting focuses on developing skills to complete specialized and original research that can directly contribute or, ultimately, affect the accounting industry.

This degree focuses on giving students advanced knowledge in applied research and accounting theory to make them capable of working in specialized research organizations and higher academic institutions.

A PhD in Accounting is the highest degree in this field, and it usually takes four to seven years to complete. Most online programs for accounting have 60 to 120 credit hours or 20 to 40 classes. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the positions in specialized consulting and government agencies will grow by 4% in over the next 10 years.

Programs for a PhD in Business Administration are designed to prepare students for academic and business careers by developing their knowledge in management, consulting, economics, public administration, and several business-related career paths.

This doctoral degree aims to provide students with a deeper understanding of different business practices, both in theory and application. Having this set of skills can unlock various opportunities in academic institutions, government agencies, and private businesses.

The majority of people who take up this degree usually have years of experience in business and are interested in acquiring advanced knowledge. Younger students can take advantage of this and get a head start in building their network and connection while still studying.

People face different challenges that can affect their mental health, which makes the PhD in Counseling one of the most popular doctoral degrees today. Earning this degree can help qualify students to practice clinical counseling and conduct research that can directly affect mental health care services.

It may take up to 10 years to earn a doctoral degree in counseling, but it will depend on the course load, and whether a student is taking up the degree part-time or full-time.

Upon completion, opportunities in both the public and private sectors will be available, and it is expected to steadily grow at 8-25%, depending on the field of specialization, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

A PhD in Criminal Justice aims to expose students to rigorous training in criminological research methods, theory, and application.

This program focuses on providing students with a better understanding of research methods and data-driven metrics that they can use to evaluate and develop criminal justice policies.

Programs for PhD in Criminal Justice typically include classes in juvenile justice, social psychology, law enforcement, criminal behavior risk factors, homeland security, and technical leadership. This set of acquired knowledge can help open up different opportunities both in public service and specialized private consultation. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that positions for this field will increase by 8% in private service and 5% in protective service.

A PhD in Curriculum and Instruction is a program that focuses on teaching the dynamics within the educational system.

Students can choose from four concentrations in this field, including Early Childhood Education, Science Education, Mathematics Education, and Social Studies. The concentrations are designed to give students the skills needed to make significant research and contribution to the enhancement of knowledge in their specialized field.

This degree aims to shape students to become highly efficient in discovering, integrating, applying, communicating, and disseminating knowledge. Earning a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction can help students become critically reflective and dedicated to providing practical and theoretical training. This set of skills can open up different opportunities for academic and leadership positions that are available in educational institutions.

Earning a PhD in Education is the highest academic achievement that students can get in the field of education.

These programs are designed to provide students with the expertise, skills, and credentials needed to conduct and publish high-level research that can affect college education, classrooms, institutions, and communities.

There are online programs that allow students to earn their doctoral degrees in education, but on-campus learning often offers better networking opportunities that can broaden their connection. Pursuing a PhD in Education requires students to have a master’s degree. This path usually takes at least three years to complete, depending on the course load and transfer credits.

Excellent education lies in the people who develop the system and the leaders that implement it. A PhD in Educational Leadership can help put scholars in a position that can directly contribute to it.

This degree focuses on providing students with the skills to solve problems and create a positive change in different learning settings and educational institutions.

Instead of practicing hands-on teaching, PhD in Educational Leadership focuses on developing the education system.

It is designed to help students conduct and publish research that can positively affect all learning environments, including pre-K-12, higher education, and even in the corporate sector. This doctoral degree can help make scholars viable candidates for high-paying positions in the academic sector, such as chief academic officer, training and development manager, and chief learning officer.

A PhD in Finance is a program for students who want to develop a deeper understanding of behavioral finance, economics, statistics, econometrics, and corporate finance.

Taking up this degree can help equip students with better mathematics skills, analytical thinking, and a deeper foundation in all facets of finance and economics.

Although a bachelor’s or master’s degree will suffice in some positions, getting a PhD in this field can help solidify a student’s position for higher-paying jobs. Armed with a set of highly specialized skills in corporate finance, asset pricing, and portfolio management, students who earn their PhD in Finance have the opportunity to increase their skills in this field.

PhD in Healthcare Management focuses on a wide range of research that can directly affect healthcare services, management, and administration.

Students may tackle subjects regarding the impact of insurance status and policies on medical expenditure, sources of discrepancies in cardiovascular care, and diffusion and adoption of innovations in healthcare.

Doctoral students in the field of healthcare management may have the opportunity to work closely with degree holders and notable professionals in the healthcare sector. There is also usually great exposure to other students with hands-on experience in business, math, social science, and clinically trained professionals. This privilege can help make them more efficient as academic researchers and open up different long-term positions in the education and healthcare sectors.

A PhD in Higher Education is a program that aims to develop scholars who are capable of conducting original research and have the necessary skills to interpret and communicate it through writing, teaching, and practice.

The research includes theoretical and empirical inputs that can affect post-secondary education policies and practices.

Students who are taking up a PhD in Higher Education need to complete a program that usually includes 60-100 credit hours.

The classes that they tackled in this doctoral degree typically include economics, politics, policies, governance, organization, student affairs, and social foundations of higher education. Students can often complete this degree within four to five years, depending on their course load, and attendance to off-campus classes.

A PhD in Homeland Security focuses on classes that provide better understanding and expertise in different research methods, strategic and critical thinking, data analysis, and policies on domestic and international security issues.

Aside from government agencies, these skills are also viable for high-paying jobs in private corporations that deal with security and emergency management.

Professionals who are working in the security service, criminal justice, and emergency preparedness sectors can pursue better career paths by earning their doctoral degree in Homeland Security. This degree can help open up different opportunities in government agencies, and the majority of degree holders find comfortable positions within the Department of Homeland Security.

PhD in Human Resources is a research-based degree that is designed to allow students to conduct and publish their original work, which can directly affect human resources.

It is a degree that helps students learn advanced skills that they need in the theoretical and empirical application on leadership, management, and administration.

Students who decide to pursue their careers in human resources will usually take four to five years before they can earn a doctoral degree. Throughout their studies, scholars may have the chance to work closely with the faculty while conducting their research, together with professionals in different fields. The coursework usually involves hands-on activities in advanced human resources, helping students solidify their chosen career path.

A PhD in Information Technology often attracts students who are keen on acquiring advanced knowledge in corporate, economic, business, and organizational implications of information technology. This degree is the highest academic achievement in the field.

It can help provide students with the opportunity to take academic positions in the future. Earning their PhD in IT allows them to pursue teaching jobs at the university-level in information technology subjects, including economics, psychology, management science, organizational behavior, and computer science.

A PhD in Information Technology is a multidisciplinary program that offers concentrations in information science and technology, information systems, software engineering, information security, and digital forensics. This acquired knowledge and skillset can help students become viable candidates in almost every private and public sector.

A PhD in management is a research-based specialization that includes advanced learning in accounting, decision theory and analysis, IT and operations management, entrepreneurship, finance, economics, leadership, and marketing.

This degree is one of the two terminal degrees that students often take if they want to pursue an academic career at business schools.

Due to the broad spectrum of study and advanced foundation in fields that are in high demand, both in the private and public sectors, PhD in Management became one of the most popular doctoral degrees. Being exposed to different research on advanced management can help students’ skills and knowledge remain current in their chosen fields.

Earning a PhD in Management Information Systems is often vital for students who want to pursue a career in economic and organizational management and technical aspects of information systems.

It focuses on research that can help students develop a deeper understanding of the economic and social contexts, together with the impacts of information technology.

This doctoral degree is in the list of STEM Designated Degree Program, which is a list of degrees that are in high demand and receives the utmost attention from academic institutions and the government. Taking up a doctoral degree in Management Information Systems has endless potential and secured positions, with an estimated 1.2 million job openings.

A doctoral degree is one of the two terminal degrees for nurse practitioners. It is a research-based degree that covers nursing methodologies and faculty development, including theoretical and empirical applications in nursing science.

This degree usually involves minimal clinical work, and students typically work closely with faculty to conduct their research.

A PhD in Nurse Practitioner requires a master’s degree and usually requires about 60 to 80 credit hours. It typically takes four to six years to complete and can be affected by the student’s course load. Upon completion of this doctoral degree, students often take positions as nursing researchers, nursing faculty, and health policy development officers.

PhD in Nursing Education is a degree that aims to create scholars who are responsible for improving and innovating education for nurses.

It is designed to provide students with a deeper understanding of educational development, strategies, and research to continuously innovate nursing science and leadership to be efficient in practicing the discipline of nursing.

It also covers other curricular and research resources from various disciplines that can have an impact on nursing science. This vast acquired knowledge in different fields can help students tackle positions in nursing faculties in both the education and healthcare sectors. It usually takes at least three years for students to earn their PhD in Nursing Education.

The effectiveness of any organization lies in the leadership that manages it. Students who want to gain a better understanding of the theoretical and empirical applications of leadership should consider taking a PhD in Organizational Leadership.

This degree is often taken by professionals who are already familiar with their industry but lack leadership skills to lead a team and execute strategic plans on different projects.

Earning a PhD in Organizational Leadership can help amplify students’ current skill set and allow them to make an impact on their organization. This degree is designed to teach them how they can effectively build and manage teams for corporate and nonprofit organizations. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that job positions for leadership roles will grow by 7% for the next 10 years.

A PhD in Project Management is a program that focuses on creating scholars who deeply understand different subjects related to organizational efficiency and business management.

This degree is designed to provide students with skills that can help them manage teams, plan, coordinate, and create budgets for different projects.

Students who are taking up a PhD in Project Management typically select their concentration from program and portfolio management, project-based strategic leadership, risk and quality management, and life-cycle and performance management. Acquired knowledge in these concentrations can help students become viable candidates for different high paying positions, both in corporate organizations and government agencies.

PhD in Psychology is a program that focuses on the study and research of the entire mental health spectrum. It covers a wide range of research and practice areas, which includes counseling, therapy, social work, and even education.

It is the ultimate pursuit of academic excellence in the field of Psychology and can help students pursue careers that allow them to practice the profession or provide specialized consulting services.

Earning a PhD in Psychology usually takes four to eight years, and it depends on whether the students take the course part-time or full-time. The programs often have at least three full academic years and one year of internship for APA accreditation.

A PhD in Public Administration is the highest applied-research degree that students can take in the field. Scholars in this field are typically required to complete a dissertation, which can contribute, improve, or innovate the practice of public administration, both theoretically and empirically.

The goal of the program is to expose scholars to significant research in their careers, whether in academic, government or other work settings.

This degree can help students acquire advanced knowledge in the legal, political, and ethical practices in public administration. It can also help students develop a deeper understanding of the administrative functions of government agencies, together with the expertise in strategic planning, program implementation, advanced management techniques, and result-based leadership.

A PhD in Public Health is a program that aims to provide scholars with advanced critical thinking and assessment skills. These skills can help them learn how to assess needs, analyze barriers, and create a positive impact on the practice of public health.

Pursuing this degree can help scholars acquire a better understanding of population-based theoretical research that can lead to the prevention of diseases and disabilities.

Students earning their doctoral degrees in public health can work on the skills they need to be efficient in biostatistics, epidemiology, or public health research.

Most of these fields require students to lead and use professional communication to inform and educate the public regarding critical issues in health. Faculty member, professor, and post-doctoral fellow are other high-demand positions that students can pursue as a degree holder in public health.

A PhD in Public Policy is a degree that focuses on developing leaders equipped with a deeper understanding of research, ethics, public policy theory, and global practice.

In essence, it is a career path that students often take if they want to develop sustainable solutions that can have a positive impact on the quality of life.

Taking up a doctoral degree in Public Policy can help students tackle leadership concepts and theories, analysis of evidence-based research, and develop methods that streamline the processes of public and nonprofit policies. These skills can help them become viable candidates for positions such as senior public executives, policy analysts, or offer specialized consulting services.

The PhD in Special Education is the highest level of research-based degree in the field. This degree is designed to help students develop new pedagogical approaches and concepts that can improve the quality of education for differently-abled children.

Earning a doctoral degree in special education can also expose students to various educational courses that can help them become efficient in providing quality education to tomorrow’s teachers.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the positions available for doctoral degree holders in special education will grow by as much as 6% over the next 10 years. These positions include education directors, curriculum developers, school principals, childcare administrators, and superintendents.

PhD in Logistics is a program designed to expose students to extensive study in theories, logistics, strategies, and application of supply chain management. It can help students learn all aspects of managing and operating the supply chain, which affects the production and distribution of a product.

The courses that students typically tackle in this degree include the concepts of demand and relationship management, forecasting, inventory, purchasing, and assembly.

This degree can help students develop a deeper understanding of the logistical systems, supply chain technology, research methods, and transportation economics. Being knowledgeable in the development, manufacturing, and logistics of products can help open up different high paying positions in product-based corporations. It is potentially one of the highest paying doctoral degrees and usually provides much room for growth and development.

What Are the Highest Paying Doctoral Degrees?

Earning a doctoral degree can help scholars build a deeper foundation in their chosen field and open up better career paths. Although getting a PhD almost guarantees a better position, some doctoral degrees are more rewarding.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the following careers and average salaries represent the top 10% of wage earners in their respective fields:

Factors that may raise or lower your salary, besides your level of education, include your experience, the industry in which you work, and your location.

Salary Increase

One of the most rewarding benefits of earning a graduate degree is the potential to increase your salary. The U.S. Census Bureau found that over the course of a person’s lifetime, someone with a doctoral degree earns $3.4 million on average.

Compare that with someone with a bachelor’s degree, who earns $2.1 million on average over the course of their lifetime. Earning an accelerated PhD could mean earning more than $1 million more.

Not all doctorates will bring in the same salary increase. LinkedIn indicates that people with PhD’s who work in the fields of Science and Engineering usually see the best pay overall. For example, the top 10% of medical scientists make, on average, close to $160,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The bottom 10% make just over $40,000 per year.

The primary difference between the top 10% and the bottom 10% is education level and experience. PhD holders in the sciences typically make much more money than those who only hold their bachelor’s or master’s degree.

What Are the Most Popular Doctorate Degrees?

The highest paying doctoral degrees are not always the most rewarding path. Taking up a popular degree, for example, can expose students to more people, and some of them may have years of experience in their chosen field.

Having this academic setting may help students to improve their existing network and might unlock several high-paying positions that seek the specialization that they have.

Which PhD program you choose should depend on your interests and overall job satisfaction, not the potential salary level alone.

Intellectual Curiosity

Many people pursue their PhD because of their intellectual curiosity and desire to learn. For fields that don’t report a significant pay increase over a master’s or bachelor’s degree (like the humanities), PhD holders often spend the years it takes earning their degree for personal fulfillment and ambition. Sometimes that payoff is enough.

If you’re interested in pursuing your PhD for these reasons, there are many accelerated PhD programs available online to help your dream of being called “Doctor” one day come true. Some people even earn a PhD in a field unrelated to their primary career because of their love for learning and their desire to pursue other topics and subjects.

Careers that Require a PhD

There are a handful of careers that require a PhD before you’ll even be considered for the job. This is because the training required to perform well at these jobs is only available through doctoral level programs. Most people obtain their PhD because they have their eye on these specific jobs. The following careers are usually only attainable to people who hold PhD’s:

• Psychologist
• Higher Education Administration (President, Dean, etc.)
• Prestigious Appointments on Corporate and Federal Boards

Many careers and fields, however, still highly value someone who holds a PhD even if it’s not required to perform the job. These are common career fields that look to doctorate holders to lead and innovate:

• Healthcare (Nursing and Public Health/Policy)
• Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Neuroscience)
• Engineering

The reality is that most people who hold a doctorate often automatically receive more respect and reverence than those who don’t. It’s a prestigious degree that only about one percent of the population holds. Many of the most respected intellectuals and leaders of corporations and organizations have a doctoral degree because of this reason.

Some universities even offer a doctorate degree online no dissertation requirement for students who prefer not to spend the extra time required to complete a dissertation.

Even if your field doesn’t require a doctorate, it may be beneficial to your advancement in your field, a potential salary increase, and your own personal ambitions of holding one of the most prestigious degrees available.

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Doctorate Degree?

There are two major types of doctoral degrees that students can earn; research-based and professional application. Both degrees require them to have a master’s degree, and if they already have one, it usually takes four to six years on average to earn their PhD.

On the other hand, students who are pursuing doctoral degrees part-time may take up to 10 years.

The time they need to complete a doctoral degree will depend on the program design and the area of specialization that they are taking. PhD programs usually require students to take 60 to 120 credit hours or about 20 to 40 classes.

However, some programs are streamlined and accelerated to help them earn their doctoral degree faster. If you have a tight schedule, then part time PhD programs are another option instead of accelerated programs.

Those who are pursuing a doctoral degree full-time can look for programs that have creative credit transfers, which can help them get their PhD within three years. These programs typically offer minimal on-campus obligations, giving scholars better flexibility in earning their degrees.

How to Accelerate Your Online PhD

Whether you’re searching for 1 year online doctoral programs or for a way to finish in 2 years, you may be able to accelerate the path to your doctorate.

Since you’ll already be expected to have completed a good amount of previous college training, there aren’t as many ways to accelerate a PhD as there are an associate, bachelor, or master’s degree. There are many accelerated PhD programs, however, that can help you move straight through a bachelor’s degree to a PhD.

In other words, you can apply to begin a bachelor’s degree with a program with the commitment and intention of following all the way through to a PhD as the final earned degree. These programs are designed so that you can earn your bachelor’s degree along the way and complete your PhD in as little as six years (including all the work you had to do towards the bachelor’s degree).

Most PhD programs take much longer than this, so this can be a great way to accelerate your degree. Alternatively, some programs award a terminal master’s degree as part of the PhD program.

If you don’t finish all the requirements for your PhD, you may still walk away with a master’s degree in your field, all of your work not having gone to waste.

Some accelerated PhD options online include accelerated courses as well. These courses can help you complete more credit hours in less amount of time and are great when you have some extra time to spare in your schedule.

They might not be as prevalent as accelerated courses at the undergraduate level, but many graduate programs online offer them as well. They are worth looking into if you’re itching to complete your degree quickly.

Advantages of Accelerated PhD Programs

Many traditional PhD programs can take a long time to complete. In fact, many programs allow students upwards of 10 years or more to complete all requirements of their degree, knowing that some students get stalled in the research and writing process.

Sometimes, having too much time to complete a degree can be detrimental to your progress and completion of that degree, especially when it comes to such an advanced degree like a PhD. Enrolling in an accelerated PhD program can encourage you to stay on track with your studies and finish within a reasonable time.

Just because you’ll be completing your doctorate online and in an accelerated format doesn’t mean the rigor or intensity of the program will be less. In fact, because you’ll probably be doing it in less time, it may be more. Most programs require a dissertation or large research project as a capstone to fulfilling the degree requirements.

Many PhD programs also require lengthy and difficult tests before they will allow students to advance to candidacy. Online degrees are not much different in regards to these expectations.

The Chronicle of Higher Education reports that the attrition rate for PhD programs is only 50%, which means that only one out of two people who begin a PhD program actually finish their degree.

It’s a sobering statistic, but it attests to the fact that a PhD is not a degree you can earn overnight. Even in an accelerated format, a doctorate takes time, effort, and dedication.

Since many people go back for their PhD’s after having already started a career in their field, choosing an accelerated PhD format might allow you to remain in your career while completing your degree. This is another benefit to completing a degree online rather than having to commute somewhere each week to complete coursework.

Finally and perhaps an overlooked advantage of these programs is that you’ll have the opportunity to network with people from across the nation. If getting a PhD means a potential climb up the ladder in your field, the rewards of moving for a job are probably worth it to you.

What better way to learn about job openings and potentials than in your online classes? Most jobs are advertised through word of mouth, so working with people from different regions and locations from where you are might open your eyes to an opportunity you never knew was there.

Getting a PhD is a serious commitment and not something you should decide on a whim to do. It can be tiring and stressful, but so very rewarding. If you complete your PhD, you’ll be one of only a small percentage of Americans who have one, and the job opportunities for you to do what you really love will most likely increase.

Accelerated PhD’s are convenient and can help you actualize your goals of earning the highest degree you can earn in your field.

Accreditation for an Online PhD Program

The Council for Higher Education Accreditation or CHEA reviews regional accrediting bodies to ensure that students receive the highest standard of education that meets local demands. In turn, these accrediting bodies evaluate academic institutions or online programs within the institution.

This process aims to regulate and ensure that the quality of education is current, practical, and is following the curriculum requirements in PhD programs.

Regional accreditation evaluates the learning process in different online programs, ensuring that students are spending money on education that employers will recognize. Look for accreditation from one of these regional boards:

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Regional accreditation of a program act as a guarantee of the value of the diploma that students receive upon completion of their course.

Financial Aid for PhD Students

On average, a PhD program costs $18,000, and taking up a five-year plan will cost at least $90,000. This amount is on top of the living expenses that students need to tank when pursuing their doctoral degrees.

However, there are different financial aids that they can pursue to fund their studies and earn their postgraduate degrees without going into debt.

Here are the types of financial aids that may be available for PhD students:

• Scholarships are the most common merit-based financial aid that students can receive. These programs can help in covering the cost of tuition and other fees that are related to earning their doctoral degrees.
• Grants are similar to scholarships, but it is for students with the need for financial assistance. Students who want to apply for grants will have to go through different evaluations to be eligible for it.
• Fellowships are programs that can provide financial aid to students who are pursuing doctoral degrees. These aids often cover the full tuition, together with a yearly stipend that students can use to cover other expenses related to earning their degrees.

You can find out what you qualify for at the federal level by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

Questions Related to Earning a PhD Online

Here are our answers to a few more questions you might have.

Can I Get My PhD Online?

Yes, it is possible to get a PhD from online programs. These programs receive regular innovations up to the point that it became the most attractive method of earning a PhD.

Today, there are 205 accredited academic institutions in the United States offering thousands of online programs that help students get their doctoral degrees.

Are Online PhD Programs Credible?

Yes, earning a PhD from online programs is a recognized achievement by employers. However, the credibility of this degree depends on the accreditation of the institution where students received it.

Regional accreditation is the process of evaluating academic institutions to ensure that students will complete a program that follows the strict guidelines and curriculum requirements of CHEA.

How Much Do Online PhD Programs Cost?

The cost of taking up online PhD programs will vary on the specialization that students want to take. On average, earning a PhD from online programs costs $4,000 to $20,000, and this amount includes the expenses for registration, books, and online coaching.

Taking a five-year plan, which is the average for most PhD courses, typically costs $20,000 to $100,000.

What Are the Best Online PhD Programs?

The best online PhD programs are those that lead you to a balance of a career you enjoy and the salary you’re comfortable with. This balance will depend on your interests.

Online learning offers a wide range of benefits, including flexibility in scheduling and defining the learning pace that is comfortable for students. However, not all online programs are made equal.

Scholars can find the PhD courses best suited for them by checking the rates, courses that they will take, the size of the classes, and regional accreditation from organizations that CHEA recognizes in evaluating PhD programs.

Is PhD Worth It?

Yes, a PhD is worth it for many students. A PhD is the highest academic achievement that any student can get, and may give a significant boost in the career path that they choose. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some careers “with an advanced degree, particularly a Ph.D., are expected to have the best opportunities.”

Acquiring advanced knowledge and highly-specialized skills in their field can help students become viable candidates in different high-paying positions. The unemployment rate for doctoral degree holders is only 1.1%, as opposed to 2% for master’s degree holders.

Universities are continuously innovating their PhD programs, making it easier for students to earn their diplomas without compromising the quality of education. With these programs, students can apply to an online PhD program and start pursuing a better career path with minimal on-campus obligations.

BA, BSc, MA, MSc, PhD - what do they all mean?

BA, BSc, MA, MSc, PhD (and more) are abbreviations of British degrees.

They reflect the specific level and discipline of a qualification achieved at university.

While most courses are conducted on a full-time basis, there are options for part-time, distance learning and other flexible learning arrangements.

Here is a breakdown of some of the most common qualifications and ones that Aberystwyth University offers.

• BA = Bachelor of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences;
• BSc = Bachelor of Sciences;
• BENG = Bachelor of Engineering (Software, Robotics and Physics);
• LLB = Bachelor of Law.

Achieved after 3 to 4 years of study. The extra year (for a 4 year course) can be from a year studying abroad or a year working in industry.

Integrated-Masters:

• MARTS = Masters of Arts;
• MBIOL = Masters of Biology;
• MCOMP = Masters of Computer Science;
• MENG = Masters of Engineering;
• MMATH = Masters of Mathematics;
• MPHYS = Masters of Physics;
• MSCI = Masters of Sciences and Humanities.

4 years course (3-year Bachelors, 1 year Masters) that enables you to secure a loan for the full duration rather than having to fund a Masters degree separately.

• MA = Masters of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences;
• MSc = Masters of Sciences;
• MBA = Masters of Business Administration;
• MPhil = Masters of Philosophy: Advanced research Masters degree;
• MRes = Masters of Research: Contains some taught and research elements;
• LLM = Masters of Law.

Achieved after graduation from Bachelors level, usually 1-2 years duration.

• PhD = Doctor of Philosophy: for a range of disciplines.

Achieved after graduating from Masters level, usually 3-8 years duration.

A wide range of Undergraduate, Postgraduate and Further-Research courses – across the Arts and Sciences – are available at Aberystwyth.

RIT graduate pursues Ph.D. across time zones

Nastaran Nagshineh, center, defended her Ph.D. thesis at RIT in April. Faculty from RIT’s Rochester and Dubai campuses served on her thesis committee and include, from left to right, Kathleen Lamkin-Kennard, Steven Weinstein, Nathaniel Barlow, and David Kofke (a professor at the University at Buffalo). Mohamed Samaha participated remotely and appears on the video screen behind the group and alongside Nagshineh’s picture.

Nastaran Nagshineh is one of the first Ph.D. candidates to bridge RIT’s Rochester and Dubai campuses. Her accomplishment creates a path for future students at the university’s international campuses.

Nagshineh completed her Ph.D. in mathematical modeling while working full time as a mathematics lecturer at RIT Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, teaching as many as five classes a semester. She described her Ph.D. journey as “an exercise in perseverance” due to competing demands and long days. Rochester is eight hours behind Dubai, and the time difference meant many late-night classes and meetings.

“I saw this collaboration as an opportunity, rather than as a challenge, because my primary adviser, Dr. Steven Weinstein (RIT professor of chemical engineering), and my co-adviser, Dr. Mohamed Samaha (RIT Dubai associate professor of mechanical engineering), both have the same area of research interest,” she said. “They both worked toward my success.”

Nagshineh is one of 67 RIT Ph.D. students who defended their thesis this academic year and who will earn their doctorate. RIT awarded 63 Ph.D. degrees in 2023.

In 2020-2021, RIT’s Graduate School met and surpassed the university’s goal of conferring 50 Ph.D. degrees during an academic year. That number will continue to grow as students cycle through the seven new Ph.D. programs that RIT has added since 2017, said Diane Slusarski , dean of RIT’s Graduate School.

Meeting these goals puts RIT on a path toward achieving an “R1,” or research-intensive designation, from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Learning. RIT is currently ranked as an R2 institution . Many factors go into changing a university’s status, including research investment and maintaining a three-year average of 70 Ph.D. degrees awarded per year, according to Slusarski.

“We have met the goals of the strategic plan, and now we look forward to contributing to the research innovation in the future,” Slusarski said. “We want to help the new programs thrive and win national research awards.”

RIT’s emphasis on high-level research is seen in Nagshineh’s Ph.D. work. She applies mathematical modeling to the field of fluid dynamics. Her research has been published in top-tier journals and has gained notice, said Weinstein, her thesis adviser.

Weinstein describes Nagshineh’s accomplishments as “a testament to a fantastic work ethic and commitment” and is inspirational to younger students at Rochester and Dubai.

“The collaboration between RIT Dubai/Rochester has continued,” he said. “Another paper was submitted a few weeks ago with Mohamed Samaha and Nate Barlow (RIT associate professor in the School of Mathematics and Statistics) as co-authors, as well as Cade Reinberger, a younger Ph.D. student in my research group.”

Mathematical modeling is one of RIT’s newer Ph.D. degree programs, and Nagshineh is among its earliest graduates. The program has doubled in size since it began accepting students in 2017, Slusarski said. This past fall, the mathematical modeling program had 35 students, with two graduating this year.

Altogether, RIT has 13 Ph.D. degree programs currently enrolling 438 students, with computing and information sciences accounting for the largest with 117 students. RIT’s other Ph.D. programs include astrophysical sciences and technology , biomedical and chemical engineering , business administration , color science , electrical and computer engineering, imaging science , mechanical and industrial engineering , microsystems engineering , and sustainability .

New programs in cognitive science and physics will launch in the fall.

The growth in RIT graduate education—with more than 3,000 master’s and doctoral students—reflects a demographic change in the student population, Slusarski said. “We have a higher percentage of women in the graduate programs than we have for RIT undergraduate programs.”

RIT’s graduate programs enroll 42 percent women, according to Christie Leone , assistant dean for the Graduate School.

Nagshineh, who also holds an MS in electrical engineering from RIT Dubai, welcomes her role as a mentor to other women students on both campuses.

“As a young woman in an Arabic country, the power of women is often underestimated and undervalued, and I hope to serve as a role model to female students, especially those that question their path,” Nagshineh said.

She plans to continue in her career as a professor and a researcher. “I would like to pursue a research program where I can advise my own students and teach them more deeply.”

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